TaperCareby FeelGround
Integrative mental health

Tapering guide

Sleep medication

Z-drugs act on the same receptors as benzodiazepines, so dependence and rebound insomnia are common after regular use. NICE recommends a gradual, agreed reduction.

Common withdrawal effects

  • Rebound insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Restlessness
  • Low mood

Tapering principles

1

Taper rather than stop

Gradual reduction reduces rebound insomnia.

2

Pair with CBT-I

Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia improves success when coming off sleep medication.

Before you begin

  • Rebound insomnia is usually temporary — it is not proof you need the medication.

Research & sources

  1. 01
  2. 02
    Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (The Ashton Manual)

    Prof. C. Heather Ashton, Newcastle University, 2002

  3. 03
    The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines

    Horowitz & Taylor, Wiley-Blackwell, 2024